Son Lan Lee Shipwash Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Son Lan Lee Shipwash Dam in Johnston, North Carolina, stands as a critical water resource structure primarily utilized for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

With a hydraulic height of 16.7 feet and a structural height of 19.7 feet, this earth dam plays a key role in managing water from the White Oak and Swift Creeks. The dam's capacity for storage, at 2 acre-feet, ensures a steady supply of water for agricultural needs in the region.

Despite its high hazard potential, Son Lan Lee Shipwash Dam maintains a fair condition assessment as of December 2020. Regular inspections and enforcement measures by the North Carolina Dam Safety Program ensure the safety and reliability of the structure. With a history of serving the community for irrigation and recreational activities, this dam underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of evolving climate challenges. As a privately owned facility, it exemplifies the critical role of private owners in safeguarding water resources for future generations.

Dam Length

300

River Or Stream

White Oak Cr. Swift Cr.

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.8

Hydraulic Height

16.7

Drainage Area

25

Nid Storage

2

Structural Height

19.7

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.